What the official ticket covers
One ticket for three buildings around a garden: the archaeology museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient (reopened on 6 July 2026 after strengthening works) and the Tiled Kiosk (Çinili Köşk, reopened in July 2026 after restoration). Open daily from 9am to 6:30pm, the ticket office closing at 5:30pm; free for children aged 12 and under with proof of age. An audio guide can be hired at reception. Some rooms may be closed for works on the day of your visit.
Ticket alone or guided tour?
| Official ticket | GetYourGuide guided tour | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | €15 | see the listing, in its currency |
| Guide | no (audio guide to hire) | yes, per the listing |
| Skip the line | no | yes, per the listing |
| Museum Pass | accepted | check |
Queues are rarely long here; the point of a guided tour is mainly the commentary, since many pieces are not explained for a non-specialist audience. Compare the tour price with €15 plus an audio guide before paying.
The essentials in two to three hours
The Alexander Sarcophagus (Sidon necropolis, late 4th century BC) and the Sarcophagus of the Mourning Women; the glazed-brick lions of the Ishtar Gate; the tablet of the Treaty of Kadesh, around 1258 BC. Our page: Istanbul Archaeological Museums.
Pairing it with Topkapı
The museum is five minutes from the First Courtyard of Topkapı Palace, through Gülhane Park (tram T1, Gülhane stop). If you combine several sites, work it out before buying the €105 Museum Pass: see the Istanbul museum pass and foreigner fees in museums.
Frequently asked questions
Is the museum open on Tuesday? Yes, every day.
How long should I allow? Two to three hours.
The Istanbul Authority editorial team, 30 October 2026.
